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COLUMBUS – Tonight, members of the Ohio Senate Democratic Caucus expressed opposition to the Senate passage of House Bill 48. This bill expands the areas in which it is legal to carry a concealed firearm to include several high-risk locations. This includes daycares, airports, and several government buildings – such as libraries, City halls, Boards of Elections, and public hospitals. Senate Democrats released the following statements in response to the passage of HB 48.

“This bill is irresponsible, dangerous, and goes against the wishes of the majority of Ohioans, including gun owners and Republicans. HB 48 reinforces to our children that violence and fear of everybody, everywhere, and every circumstance is the way to solve problems. The Wild West is the mentality of small minds and reckless people.”

Senator Edna Brown (D-Toledo), Senate Minority Whip:

“I listened to many people testify about House Bill 48 in committee. What stood out to me was how firmly opposed police officers are to this legislation. They serve to protect us, and yet this bill could potentially make their jobs much harder. In situations like what recently took place at Ohio State, how would police determine who the suspect is versus an innocent, armed civilian? Carrying weapons in vulnerable areas should be a practice left solely to professionals.”

Senator Kenny Yuko (D-Richmond Heights):

“People oppose this bill because it’s easy to see where it could go horribly wrong. Some of my colleagues have argued that this bill is a convenience measure for legal gun owners. That simply isn't a good enough reason to place Ohioans at risk.”

Senator Sandra Williams (D-Cleveland):

“The nature of the guns everywhere bill is severely harmful to our most vulnerable Ohioans. With the stroke of a pen, the passing of HB 48 will turn an environment that was once deemed safe for our children and families into a potentially deadly scene. I wholeheartedly oppose this measure.”

Senator Cecil Thomas (D-Cincinnati):

“This bill is highly inconsistent. It does not allow firearms in elementary or high schools, but it allows them in daycares. I join my colleagues in voting against House Bill 48.”

State Senator Kenny Yuko honored the Beachwood High School Girls Track Team in the Ohio Senate for winning the State Championship. Coach Smith was joined by Mia Knight, Maya Gaines-Smith, Emilykate Hopsum-Boyd, and Hannah Kahn who all received special recognition, along with a Resolution honoring all of them for their accomplishment.

COLUMBUS –State Rep. Kathleen Clyde (D-Kent) and Senator Kenny Yuko (D-Richmond Heights) will soon introduce legislation to modernize voter registration in Ohio and potentially add over 1 million people to the voting rolls. Ohio continues to struggle to implement federal Motor Voter laws. This bill will fix those problems and automate voter registration for graduating high school students as well.